City Of Leon Auditorium
Leon, Spain
Mansilla + Tuņon Arquitectos

A performing arts center that plays with light and dark, old and new

© Luis Asin

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While the architects say that their new performing arts center reflects the influence of Leon’s two major monuments—a monastery and a Gothic cathedral—the building is refreshingly modern rather than derivative. In fact, the building’s exterior owes more to the music that is performed within the auditorium. The stark white exterior is composed of a stack of windows, playfully varied in size. Like a musical score, there are five horizontal levels and thus rectangular apertures appear as if notes on a staff. The horizontal strips increase in height from bottom to top.

The building boasts both a small museum and a concert hall. The hall seats 1,200 people and can accommodate a variety of events, from chamber music to opera to conferences. Lined with dark wood throughout, the auditorium is a cozy, cool space compared to the brightly lit entrance and of the exterior of building. A strip of offices and the box office connect to the auditorium through a breezeway. Patrons can enjoy the luminous exhibition hall and entry foyer before or after music performances.

Formal name of Project:
City Of Leon Auditorium

Location:
Leon, Spain

Gross square footage:
97,000 sq. ft.

Total construction cost:
$18 million

Owner:
City Of Leon

Architect:
Mansilla + Tuņon Arquitectos
C/ Rios Rosas 11, 6, 28003 Madrid, Spain